Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2)

The Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2) is a standardised assessment tool to aid a psychologist in diagnosing Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in children and adults.

Unlike many other psychometric tools, the ADOS-2 is administered in the form of a semi-structured social setting for standardised behavioural observation and coding instead of a paper-and-pen tool or an electronic assessment.

What Happens during an Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2) Assessment?

ADOS-2 comprises of the following:

Semi-structured Interview(s)
Administration of a ADOS-2 Module (40 - 60 minutes)
After the Assessment, a Feedback Session with a psychologist to explain findings and recommendations

What does an Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2) measure?

The ADOS-2 has standardised activities and questions, such as planned social activities, which includes events where social situations, communication and certain types of behaviours are likely to appear. These provide the psychologist with a good opportunity to observe behaviours that are directly relevant to an ASD diagnosis.

The Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2) measures:

Communication
Social interaction
Play
Restricted and repetitive behaviours

Suitable for children and adults, the ADOS-2 has 5 modules depending on one’s age and language and developmental level, as listed below. Each module takes 40 to 60 minutes to complete and an individual only goes through one module. The module they undergo is based on their communication level and age.

Ψ Toddler Module - for children between 12 to 30 months who do not consistently use phrase speech
Ψ Module 1 - for children above 31 months who do not consistently use phrase speech
Ψ Module 2 - for children of any age who use phrase speech but are not verbally fluent
Ψ Module 3 - for verbally fluent children and young adolescents
Ψ Module 4 - for verbally fluent older adolescents and adults

These modules are similar in the assessment of areas in communication, social interaction, play, and restricted and repetitive behaviours. By observing and coding these behaviours, information can be attained for diagnosis, management planning, and educational placement.

Where an official ASD diagnosis is sought, psychologists use the ADOS-2 in tandem with the Autism Diagnostic Interview - Revised (ADI-R). The combination of ADI-R and ADOS-2 allows for a more comprehensive and accurate understanding of your family member’s condition and what can be done to best support them moving forward.